🔧 Rear Turn Signal Bulb - Replacement

On your Equinox, the rear turn signal bulb is serviced through the tail lamp assembly. You’ll remove the lamp, twist out the bulb socket, swap the bulb, then reinstall everything and test the signal.

Difficulty Level: Beginner | Estimated Time: 0.5-1 hour

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⚠️ Safety & Precautions

• Turn the ignition off before starting.
• Let the rear lamps cool down if they were recently on.
• Support the tail lamp carefully so you do not crack the lens.
• No battery disconnect is required for this repair.

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🔧 Required Tools

You'll need the following tools for this repair:

• 7mm socket
• Ratchet
• Short extension
• Trim panel tool
• Gloves
• Safety glasses

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🔩 Required Parts

HowToo sells all the parts you need for this repair:

• Rear turn signal bulb, amber - Qty: 1
• Rear turn signal bulb, amber - Qty: 2 (replace both sides if desired)

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📋 Before You Begin

• Park on level ground and set the parking brake.
• Open the liftgate.
• Make sure the light switch is off.

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🔨 Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps in order:

Step 1: Remove the tail lamp fasteners

• Open the liftgate and locate the two rear tail lamp fasteners.
• Use a 7mm socket with a ratchet and short extension to remove the bolts.
• Set the bolts aside safely.

Step 2: Release the tail lamp assembly

• Gently pull the tail lamp straight back to release the locating pins.
• Use a trim panel tool if the lamp feels stuck.
• Pull straight, not sideways.

Step 3: Remove the bulb socket

• Find the rear turn signal bulb socket on the back of the lamp assembly.
• Twist the socket counterclockwise by hand and remove it.
• Pull the old bulb straight out of the socket.

Step 4: Install the new bulb

• Push the new amber bulb into the socket until it seats fully.
• Do not touch the glass part of the bulb with bare fingers.
• Clean bulbs last longer.

Step 5: Reinstall the socket and lamp

• Insert the socket back into the tail lamp and twist it clockwise to lock.
• Align the tail lamp pins with the body openings.
• Push the lamp into place, then reinstall the fasteners with the 7mm socket.
• Torque to snug only; do not overtighten plastic lamp fasteners.

Step 6: Test the repair

• Turn the ignition on.
• Activate the left and right turn signals.
• Confirm the new bulb flashes normally and the lens is seated correctly.

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✅ After Repair

• Check both rear signals from outside the vehicle.
• Make sure the tail lamp is flush with the body.
• If the bulb still does not work, check the socket for corrosion or a blown fuse.

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💰 DIY vs Shop Cost

Shop Cost: $80-$160 (parts + labor)

DIY Cost: $10-$30 (parts only)

You Save: $70-$130 by doing it yourself!

Shop labor rates vary but typically run $100-$150/hour. This repair takes a shop approximately 0.5-1 hour.

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🎯 Ready to get started?

HowToo makes it easy: same-day/2-day shipping on every part, plus all the tools and specialty tools you need! Check out the parts and tools sections below to add everything to your cart.